Sean McCarthy Festival 2025 – A Celebration of Music, Storytelling & Community
The village of Finuge came alive over the August Bank Holiday weekend for the Sean McCarthy Festival 2025, as locals, visitors, and artists from near and far came together to celebrate the life, music, and legacy of one of Kerry’s finest songwriters. From heartfelt ballads to captivating stories, energetic rambling houses to nightly entertainment, the festival once again showcased the very best of North Kerry’s rich folk tradition.
Musical Highlights
Friday Night – Meadhbh Walsh in Concert
Friday night saw a sold-out concert by the sensational Meadhbh Walsh, whose performance had the audience on their feet from start to finish. The atmosphere was electric, making it one of the festival’s standout moments.
Sean McCarthy Ballad Competition – 30th Year – Hear the winning song here
The competition drew entries from across Ireland. Barry Tierney from Cork took first place with “Farmer John of Heavenly Nets”, told from the perspective of a woman grieving for her Johnny, lost at sea, wishing he had stayed on the farm. The song beautifully explores the connection between fishing and farming in coastal communities.
1st Place: Barry Tierney – Farmer John of Heavenly Nets
2nd Place: Emily Aherne – The Golden Gates
3rd Place: Michael Flanagan – The Ballad of Tom & John
Storytelling & Tradition
Storytelling Competition Winners
1st Place: Frances Kennedy – Life’s Ups & Downs
2nd Place: Danny Larkin – Birthdays in Tramore
Joint 3rd Place: Dominic Bennett – Long Runs the Fox
Joint 3rd Place: Marie Gillen – Mannanan Mac Lir
Junior Rambling House
Saturday afternoon’s Junior Rambling House welcomed young musicians, singers, dancers, and storytellers from across the region — proof that our folk traditions are alive and thriving.
Peggie O’Connell Memorial Rambling House
On Monday, a huge crowd gathered to honour Peggie O’Connell, a huge part of the festival since its beginning and the driving force behind the Rambling House in Finuge. It was a fitting tribute, with an afternoon of music, song, and dance celebrating her legacy.
A Word of Thanks
The Sean McCarthy Festival would not be possible without the support of our main sponsors — Mike & Sue Nilsson, IMRO Ireland, and the Estate of Sean McCarthy — along with our many patrons, volunteers, performers, and the local community.
Your dedication and generosity keep this unique celebration alive year after year.
See You in 2026!
As we reflect on another successful year, we are already looking forward to welcoming you back to Finuge for Sean McCarthy Festival 2026. Until then, keep singing, keep telling stories, and keep the tradition alive.